Word Origin & History

amuse late 15c., from M.Fr. amuser "divert, cause to muse," from a "at, to" (but here probably a causal prefix) + muser "ponder, stare fixedly." Sense of "divert from serious business, tickle the fancy of" is recorded from 1630s, but through 18c. the primary meaning was "deceive, cheat" by first occupying the attention. Bemuse retains more of the original meaning.

Example Sentences for amused

He said this in a tone of desperation which amused them all very much.

She was now to be amused with variety, and the prim was offered to her contemplation.

The face of the brilliant Diana was entirely devoted to him she amused.

The only feeling he retained for his fellow-men was that of an amused contempt.

You know, the upper classes, most of them, want to be amused all day long.

All during the winter the little bird cheered and amused him.

You might be amused at the idea of doing that as an experiment.

She drooped her head, unable to meet the amused look in his eyes.

Whatever the mental comment attached to the gaze, the eyes that meet mine are quite as often astounded as amused.